New Delhi: In a move that signals continuity in cinematic leadership, the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting has appointed acclaimed filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker as Festival Director for the 57th edition of the International Film Festival of India, to be held in Goa.
The appointment brings in a filmmaker whose association with IFFI spans decades, reflecting his sustained engagement with the evolution of the festival and global cinema, according to an official statement.
Expressing his views, Gowariker said that it was a matter of immense pride and joy for him to serve as the Festival Director of the prestigious festival in Goa. He noted that he felt privileged to have witnessed its evolution, recalling that his association began in 1984 and continued over the years, including his role as Jury President for International Cinema in 2024.
He further stated that carrying forward the legacy built since 1952 by numerous festival teams was a great honour and came with a renewed sense of responsibility. He added that he looked forward to working closely with the Ministry and the government of Goa.
Established in 1952, the International Film Festival of India remains one of Asia’s premier film festivals, serving as a major platform for showcasing global cinema and promoting cultural exchange.
Jointly hosted by the National Film Development Corporation of India and the Entertainment Society of Goa, the festival has evolved into a global cinematic platform that brings together established auteurs and emerging voices.
With a mix of international competition, curated country focuses, masterclasses, tributes, and the WAVES Film Bazaar, the festival continues to serve as a hub for collaboration and creative exchange.
Set against Goa’s coastal backdrop, the 57th edition, scheduled for November 2026, is expected to further expand its canvas, bringing together diverse storytelling traditions, cinematic forms, and technologies from across the world.
